Drowning & Dry Drowning: What Every Family Needs to Know This Summer

Summer is a time for pool parties, lake days, and beach vacations—but with all the fun comes a serious risk: drowning. It can happen quickly, quietly, and in ways many families don’t expect. Even after leaving the water, complications like dry drowning or secondary drowning can emerge hours later and catch caregivers off guard.

At iCare ER & Urgent Care, we see water-related injuries every summer—and we want to help prevent them before they happen. This article walks you through essential safety tips, what to watch for after a water scare, and when to seek immediate care.

Drowning by the Numbers

According to the CDC:

• Drowning is the leading cause of injury-related death in children ages 1–4

• It is the second leading cause in kids aged 5–14

• More than 4,000 fatal drownings and 8,000 nonfatal drownings occur in the U.S. each year

But here’s what many people don’t realize:

• Drowning can be silent—no screaming, no splashing

• It can happen in seconds

• It doesn’t require a pool—bathtubs, buckets, even toilets can be dangerous for small children

Water Safety Tips: Prevention Starts Before the Pool

Whether you’re heading to the beach or setting up a kiddie pool in the backyard, these tips could save a life:

👀 Supervise Actively

• Always keep eyes on children around water, even if they can swim.

• Avoid distractions like phones, books, or long conversations.

• Designate a “Water Watcher” during group events, switching off every 15 minutes.

🛑 Secure the Environment

• Install four-sided fences with self-locking gates around pools.

• Use door alarms or pool covers for extra security.

• Drain baby pools, coolers, and buckets immediately after use.

🏊‍♂️ Swim Smart

• Enroll kids in age-appropriate swim lessons.

• Encourage swimming only in designated areas with lifeguards.

• Avoid alcohol when supervising children or swimming.

❤️ Prepare for Emergencies

• Learn CPR and rescue breathing techniques.

• Keep a life ring and phone close to the pool.

• Know where the nearest emergency care center is located—just in case.

 What Is Dry Drowning and Secondary Drowning?

Though rare, these post-submersion syndromes can be frightening and dangerous if not recognized in time.

Dry Drowning

Occurs when water irritates the vocal cords, causing them to spasm and close up—preventing air from getting into the lungs. It typically happens minutes after a water incident.

Secondary Drowning

Occurs when a small amount of water enters the lungs and causes inflammation, fluid buildup, or infection. Symptoms may appear 1 to 24 hours after swimming.

❗Both are considered medical emergencies and require prompt evaluation.

 Warning Signs to Watch for After a Water Incident

Even if your child seems fine after a brief scare, pay close attention for the next 24 hours. Seek medical attention at iCare ER & Urgent Care immediately if you notice:

• Persistent coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath

• Vomiting or choking

• Unusual tiredness or extreme sleepiness

• Confusion, irritability, or unusual behavior

• Chest pain or rapid heartbeat

• Skin that looks pale, cool, or bluish (especially lips and fingertips)

Common Myths About Drowning—Debunked

Myth 1: Drowning victims always scream and flail.
Reality: Most drowning is silent. Victims may slip under without a sound.

Myth 2: Only bad swimmers drown.
Reality: Strong swimmers can drown due to fatigue, cold shock, cramps, or alcohol.

Myth 3: Once they’re out of the water, they’re fine.
Reality: Complications like dry or secondary drowning can emerge later—always monitor closely.

🏥 How iCare ER & Urgent Care Can Help

Whether it’s a minor concern or a life-threatening emergency, we’re equipped to respond—fast.

• 🩺 Expert medical evaluation to determine lung function and detect hidden risks

• 🌬️ Oxygen therapy and breathing support, if needed

• 📸 Onsite chest X-rays and labs for accurate diagnosis

• 💧 IV fluids to treat dehydration or shock

• 🚑 Stabilization and rapid transfer to pediatric or specialty centers for advanced care

• 🕒 24/7 availability—no appointment needed

At iCare, we combine urgent care convenience with emergency room readiness, ensuring you never have to guess where to go.

Water safety should be a priority—not a worry. By staying alert, preparing properly, and knowing the signs of trouble, you can enjoy a safer, stress-free summer.

If your child experiences any breathing difficulty, abnormal behavior, or physical symptoms after swimming, don’t wait. Bring them to iCare ER & Urgent Care—we’ll assess, treat, and give you peace of mind.

📍 Multiple Locations Near You: Frisco, Fort Worth, Forney
🕒 Open 24/7 | Walk-Ins Welcome
iCare ER & Urgent Care—Here When Every Second Counts.